In brief
Morimasa Hibino, a 69-year-old tourist from Japan, tragically died after falling from a height of approximately seven meters while sitting on the perimeter wall at the Pantheon in Rome. The accident occurred late in the evening, prompting investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall. With millions visiting the Pantheon each year, this incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding tourist safety in busy attractions.
A 69-year-old Japanese tourist has died after falling off the perimeter wall of the Pantheon in Rome, according to local media reports.
Morimasa Hibino is said to have fallen from a height of about seven meters (22.9 ft) at around 21:50 local time (19:50 GMT). A priest who was passing by alerted the police when he saw the man lying in the ditch, according to the local newspaper la Repubblica.
Emergency services and firefighters reportedly had to force open a gate outside the ancient Roman temple before finding the man dead in a ditch.
An investigation is under way to determine the cause of the death.
The man was sitting on the edge of the wall, lost his balance, and fell, la Repubblica reported, citing police.
Investigators have obtained surveillance images and videos overlooking the spot where the man was sitting, local media reports.
The Pantheon is one of Italy's most visited attractions, with millions of tourists estimated to see it every year.
